Student review: I had the privilege to be Master Kim's student since the year 2000 (8yrs old) along with my sister. I can tell you Master Kim is nothing but the best! Never had one complaint or even questioned Master Kim's motives as it is nothing but genuine. I felt really comfortable which is huge as a kid. I tried out other studios prior to Master Kim's and the atmosphere / instruction doesn't compare. He is not one of those transactional businesses and out to get your money. I can say Master Kim's business is based on the foundation of relationship and transformation. He not only challenged me physically but also mentally. This is where the relationship and transformation comes in. He was able to make it "click" in my stubborn head, he has a way of teaching that just makes sense...not to mention grasping my attention/interest. Because Master Kim was able to connect/bond with my child mentality, I loved and respected him which in turn made me want to work harder/do my best. I learned how to think, be responsible, disciplined, along with other skills. For a child with ADHD it was a huge skill for me to learn but he held me accountable. Those skills really carried into my adulthood and led to a successful career! I can tell you having Master Kim in my life has transformed me to be the person who I am today. I can honestly say as an 8yr old to now being 27yrs old, his program truly did improve my mind, body, and spirit. I really can't put a price on the impact Master Kim's has had in my life. Parent view: I loved Master Kim's program so much as a kid, I wanted my daughter to have the same experience so I enrolled her. She absolutely loves Master Kim! I knew she would :) His prices are very very very fair especially with everything you or your child will get out of it (if you look at the big picture). As a parent I wouldn't care if he charged more because I can say he is worth it and deserves every penny he makes! Nothing in this world is free. You can't put a price on quality. read more

I met Master Kim for the first time when I was seven years old. I remember walking into his office and telling him how I wanted to become a power ranger. I was so excited to finally be starting martial arts. His styles of teaching are so influential and encouraging for young students to become better in all areas of life (from school & academics, to listening to parents at home, in addition to becoming physically fit and mentally disciplined). He understands the significance of differentiating fun and serious times with students. The teaching style he exemplifies will overall affect individuals in a positive way. (I know it surely did with me). He knows how to push students to exceed their own goals/ thresholds. With such an exceptional paradigm, I was able to accomplish goals in my life in which I would've never thought I could at such a young age. By the time I was 12-14 years old, I was ranked 2nd in the nation for girls' fighting within the NASKA (North American Sport Karate Association) circuit. Now I look back and realize that's a lot going on for such a young person! I was in advanced classes in middle school in addition to AP/ IB classes in high school, and I would've never been able to travel the country for competitions/ do any of that without him as my instructor, coach, and supporter! I reminisce on those years as vital years of the foundation in who I am today. He had this quote on the wall, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit. ~Aristotle" that's still etched in my mind. I've carried it with me during my later years in high school, college, and engineering career. Whenever I was home on break from Virginia Tech, I made it a point to go and visit Master Kim because he's a huge contributing factor towards my success. I also like to see how he's raising up the future generation of leaders! You know the phrase "It takes a village to raise a child" ? I'm sure glad he was in mine!!! read more

Kim's Hapkido has had a positive impact on my family's life over the past 18 years. He is competitively priced, and worth every dollar. Gone are the days when you can depend on your neighbors help to raise your children. In today's Society it seems like every one has an entitlement mentality. "Me, me, me, it's all about me. Give me, give me, give me, my name is Jimmy." In the Hapkido Studio Master Kim's uses all his talents to help parents foster, and grow their children to be assets to our Society. Students over the years with the help of Master Kim's teaching along with the parents willingness to cooperate, and reinforce, at home practice, have went on to become Pilots in the Armed Force, engineers, med school students, just about every walk of life you can think of his students are making a difference. He is an awesome personality, he is very kind, but he is not soft. His stature is one that you are willing to respect, with it comes great Leadership. So yes if I had to do it all over agin, 100 percent I would do it, at his competitive prices. You can not feed your children green baloney, and expect them to be healthy. So if you have the mentality, that the world owes you something, then this may not be the place for you: however; if you care about your family being productive citizens, then men and women like Master Kim are who you want on your side in today's backwards society. Master Kim, Sir!, Thank you for helping me understand the martial artist discipline, and effectively using it, as a life long tool. I truly believe my children would Not be world class with out your teachings. Again thank you for the help in taking them to their 2nd degree Black Belt LifeStyle. I truly believe that they are using honor in all they do. So yes I give honor where honor is due. So for you naysayers, you are missing out, I know what truly matters. Richard Gonzales read more

My husband and I believe Master Kim's martial arts program is among the best of the best! When we moved into the area, we researched several martial arts schools for my two young boys, almost 4 and almost 5yrs. We were thoroughly impressed at Master Kim's method of teaching. In addition to the martial arts skills, Master Kim reinforced countless values that have helped my boys mature into wonderful young men. Both young boys eventually became second degree black belts and were part of the demonstration team My boys succeeded academically in the rigors of the MYP, IB programs while also excelling in music and athletic programs. They eventually got into prestigious, highly competitive colleges. My husband and I attribute much of their success to values reinforced from Master Kim's classes. The golden nuggets of advice that he doled out at every class were invaluable! I was consistently amazed of his ability to teach young "bundles of energy" to sit quietly and listen. Then, while they were sitting quietly, Master Kim used the time to talk about being respectful, listening to parents and teachers, studying, doing your best, cleaning your room! Ingenious! Master Kim has been a mentor and role model to my young men. My husband and I give Master Kim's program our highest recommendations! read more

I started taking classes with Master Kim when I was three years old. Master Kim normally doesn't take students that young, but he made an exception for me which I was thankful for. I loved training with him and his studio became my second home. I trained with Master Kim for 11 years and earned my second-degree black belt. I was a member of the demonstration team and black belt club. Under Master Kim's guidance, I competed nationally in the North American Sport Karate Association and was ranked 3rd for my age group in forms and weapons. Master Kim did not only teach me how to defend myself; he taught me the value of discipline and hard work. He held me accountable and always emphasized the importance of school. While attending Kim's Hapkido, I was in the rigorous MYP/IB program and excelled in all of my middle school and high school classes. I received my college degree and I'm currently attending medical school. I'm still best friends with some of the people I met at the studio almost 20 years ago. Kim's Hapkido is more than just your typical martial arts studio. Master Kim is like a second father to me and he has had a huge impact on my life. I am the man I am today because of his teaching and mentorship. read more

I love this school. It is always clean, professional and the kids have fun while learning. I'm impressed by Master Kim and his experience. The tuition is reasonable and worth it because I want the best for my family and I did my homework. There were cheaper schools, but after checking several alternative schools, it wasn't really a contest on where to go. Hands down, I chose quality over cheap every time. The tiny details were impressive. Even the custom uniforms were much better quality than the other schools I saw. Most people don't notice that stuff, but I'm a detail type guy. None of the other schools I visited had an enrollment package or asked about medical conditions or could answer all my questions about testing, training and promotion like Master Kim did. The curriculum is challenging physically so that fitness is definitely part of the training. All the Black Belts were very impressive as they trained. Master Kim explained the 3 parts of martial arts training Mind, Body and Spirit in a way I had not heard before. So yeah. If you want the best training with the highest professionalism, then my recommendation is with this school. read more

My Grandson started Hapkido in October of 2018. Aden has always been a good boy a great listener and ready to please, but now he is not just ready to please he does the write thing because it makes him feel good, he goes above and beyond around the house and at school. Aden has his regular chore list and any thing that he does above and beyond gets rewarded. Master Kim is very good at instant gratification by rewarding them with belt stickers that have a value to each color. When each child gets rewarded they all clap for each other. The value each child sees in themselves and their class mates is incredible. You can go to any place and get martial arts classes but the discipline, pride, and respect your child will receive and learn in Master Kim's class is incredible. This will go a long way in your child's life. Master Kim makes every person feel part of the family. Master Kim also helps with disciple with each child as quick as he rewards them he also disciplines them when needed. Thank you Master Kim Teresa Howell read more

Kim's Hapkido offers genuine martial arts lessons. There is no volleyball, gymnastics, etc; it is pure martial art, and includes hand-to-hand techniques and weapons. The lessons are provided by the studio's owner, Master Kim. His credentials are impeccable. He is a great mentor to his students and very personable. Students are held to high standards of conduct - in AND out of the studio; as well as, scholastic academics, if they are school age students. Students are rewarded justly for their efforts and progress. The environment and location is safe, clean and easily accessible from any city. He offers an After School Program, and a summer camp which my son attended - and THOROUGHLY enjoyed. This is the best value, for the price, that I have ever spent on my child. It is especially rewarding to see my son look forward to attending something that is so physically challenging everyday! read more

I met master Kim when I was 12. I was a kid that moved around alot. I had been in martial arts since I was 5, disciplined in Kempo and tae kwon do. I had tried several studios in the area and was wondering if this one would would be the one. After one class I knew it was. Not only was master Kim a great practitioner but he was a great teacher. Not just in martial arts but in every aspect of life. Out all the masters I've had he is by far the most influential one. I would not be the man I am today without his training. He taught me to be respectful, to help others, and the will power to go beyond my physical limits. Now I'm 28, a loyal husband, a loving father of 4, a SGT in the army, a police officer. I know I wouldn't have been able to do all this with out the guidance of master Kim. He is truly a father figure. Thank you so much master Kim! And he would always tell me to cut my hair read more

We have had an amazing experience at this martial arts studio! My son has been training here for the past two years, and the growth we've seen has been incredible. Not only has he learned so many valuable martial arts techniques, but he has also developed discipline, confidence, respect, and perseverance. The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and truly care about each student's success both on and off the mat. They create a positive, encouraging environment that motivates the kids to do their best. Even with the departure of Master Kim, my family and I are confident in the new owner and instructor. She has been here all along and has shown she knows how to lead with her experience and knowledge. We are so grateful to be part of this martial arts family and highly recommend this studio to anyone looking for a place where their child can learn, grow, and thrive! read more

Master Kim's is THE place to learn Hapkido in Virginia beach. He was recommended by friends who have had their 3 children achieve black belt status and have gained confidence and self reliance. It was a no brainer when I had to choose a school for my 2 children to join. Hapkido is not just about kicking and punching like most schools around town, it's more about flow and not getting hit or into a fight in the first place. He is not only a great teacher who gaines respect from his pupils easily but also a friend who is always there to lend an ear regardless of the issue at hand. It has been a blessing for my children to learn from him and they are always looking forward to class. And if you dont believe, go in and see for youself...first class is almost always free! Thanks master Kim! read more

There are many places that I could take my son in order for him to learn martial arts but I have found Kim's Hapkido to be the best fit for my family. I have found Master Kim to be very competent in the arts and a great teacher who not only challenges his students' physical skills but also their mental capability to make them well rounded. My son has been a member of Master Kim's school for the past two years and I have found him to be genuinely caring, wanting all his students to surpass any achievement that they set their mind to achieve. At the dojo Master Kim always makes sure to maintain a family friendly environment inviting to all that may come. With hard work and dedication the students flourish and become productive citizens of our society. read more

I was confused about the various forms of Martial Arts and did quite a bit of research (including visits) before we selected Kim's Hapkido. We have never regretted the choice to join this fun and wholesome environment. Master Kim is a genuinely caring and gifted instructor who has helped to develop self esteem and emotional control in both of my boys who have very different personalities, ability, and learning styles. Master Kim knows when to push each child to their individual next level and when to support to build their confidence. Hapkido training developed a self awareness of their body to command strength, endurance, and focused energy that has benefited their physical ability in martial arts and other sports. JB read more

Kim's Hapkido is an excellent martial arts studio. There are many different age groups from toddler to adult classes. My daughter has been going there for over a year and loves it. It has helped with her strength and has made her more confident in herself. Master Kim is great with the kids and always encourages them to do their best no matter what it is. He is a great person as well as an awesome instructor. It is a very family oriented place as well, we have had family fun days, Halloween parties and we also had my daughters birthday party there last year that was a lot of fun. I would strongly recommend Kim's Hapkido as a great place to enroll in for martial arts! read more

I have been going to Kims Hapkido for a few weeks now and I must say I am impressed. The beginning stretches are very effective and so is the techniques taught at the school. After watching videos I was a bit skeptical about the art working so well but after attending Im a firm believer. Very respectful teacher and students, great adult and family atmosphere. I would recommend anyone coming here, if for anything else the exercise. Also this is one of the few schools locally that has morning martial arts classes (not just night classes), which works with my schedule. The first class was free and I was immediately hooked. read more

Superior mentoring by Master Kim as well as others in this family. Great place to hone self discipline, loyalty, and healthy character building .A great way to deal with depression. Great place to develop character, enhance physical endurance and be around a wonderfully energized group of individuals. No matter where you are are on the exercise continuum, it can get a great start at this studio! It's great for kids, teens and adults (I'm 60 years young!). Just follow directions, do your best and show up! You'll be so glad you did! read more

I enrolled my son in Master Kim's class almost 3 months ago; by far the best decision I could have made. Mister Garrett and Master Kim are extremely good with kids and help build their confidence ( a big deal to me since my son is extremely shy). The thing that i think I am most impressed with is that Master Kim is not only concerned with the kids behavior in the studio but at home and school as well. He also helps with my daughter even though she is not in his class. I can not praise this place enough. read more

My four year old son started Hapkido about a year ago and it has been a very good experience for him. He is learning discipline and skills that will help to give him confidence now with his peers and throughout life. Master Kim and his staff are very good with kids and I am happy with my son's progress. The older kids all have good form and seem to enjoy taking classes here. I would recommend this school for anyone interested in learning self defense and/or working out to improve overall health. read more

Master Kim and staff at Kim's Hapkido are wonderful. I have two children enrolled in classes ages 8 and 10. As a parent the lessons Master Kim teaches are priceless, both in self defense and "life" lessons. Call me old fashioned but it's a breath of fresh air watching the kids involved actually working hard to earn their belts. He pushes the kids and holds them accountable for their actions. Much better program than a lot out there where you just show up and are rewarded for mediocrity. read more